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The best safari dresses & jumpsuits to wear on an african safari.

If you’re heading out on safari and want to look stylish, this guide will help you choose the dresses and jumpsuits for your adventure. As you prepare for an unforgettable journey through the wilds of Africa, it’s essential to prioritise comfort, functionality and practicality when deciding how to dress. 

In this post, we’ll list the best safari dresses and jumpsuits on the market today that will make sure you are stylish, comfy and fully ready for your safari adventure. We’ll explore the essential factors to consider to help you find the perfect dress or jumpsuit for your African safari.

Rufiji Safari Shirt Dress

If you’re looking for a classic shirt dress for your safari, the Rufiji MaraTech shirt dress is it! Designed with adventure in mind, this dress combines functionality with an elegant safari look, while the lightweight fabric offers moisture-wicking properties and built-in SPF50+ sun protection. It’s also fitted with anti-bacterial technology, which keeps both you and the dress fresh between washes. That’s a definite win when you’re out and about in the bush! With roll-up sleeve tabs, two chest pockets and a flattering feminine cut, the dress effortlessly combines style and utility making it ideal for a safari dress.

Tentree Oversized Shirt Dress

If ethics and sustainability are important factors in your safari packing list , I cannot wait to introduce you to the Oversized Shirt Dress from Tentree. It is ethically made in China and designed in Canada, reflecting the brand’s commitment to responsible manufacturing. This versatile dress is an ideal addition to your safari luggage and perfect for year-round wear, offering a polished look that is both stylish and sustainable. Made from TENCEL, a naturally resilient fabric sourced from sustainably-managed forests, it ensures comfort and gentle care for your skin. The dress features an open collar, hi-low hem and buttoned cuffs for a chic touch, as well as my absolute favourite feature – pockets! It combines functionality with fashion, so the perfect dress for a safari.

Tentree Cyprus Dress

Another ethically made product from Tentree, the Cypress Dress is ready to elevate your safari style. This halterneck summer dress is perfect for embracing the spirit of adventure. Crafted from plant-based fabric, it offers a lightweight and casual feel while being gentle on the skin. The dress features a keyhole back with a necktie, an elastic waistband and convenient hand pockets. Its versatile design allows you to pair it with sandals or sneakers for an effortlessly chic look. Experience both comfort and flair with the Cypress Dress and make a statement on your safari journey.

Tentree Blakeney Jumpsuit

Take your safari style to the next level with the Blakely Jumpsuit . This lightweight Tencel jumpsuit is a sustainable and effortless choice for your next adventure. With its crossover v-neck and front hook and eye closure, it offers a stylish yet secure fit. The elasticated waist with a drawcord ensures comfort and a flattering silhouette, while the hand pockets add practicality. Made from fabric sourced from sustainably-managed forests, this jumpsuit is both resilient and gentle on the skin. Embrace convenience and eco-consciousness with the Blakely Jumpsuit and make a positive impact while exploring the wild.

Craghoppers Nosilife Pro Dress

Gear up for your safari adventure with the Nosilife Pro Dress in classic khaki green. This versatile travel dress is the perfect companion for hot-climate explorations. Its lightweight stretch construction allows for unrestricted movement, while the NosiLife anti-insect treatment keeps biting bugs at bay. With features like odour control patches, a zipped security pocket, and drying loops, this dress combines functionality with style. Made with sustainability in mind, it offers both comfort and peace of mind. Don’t miss out on this agile and insect-resistant dress for your next safari expedition.

Craghoppers Nosilife Savannah Dress

Prepare for your safari in style with the Nosilife Savannah Dress in a variety of muted colours, perfect for the African bush. This classic tropical adventure dress has been reimagined with modern fabric technology. Its button-through design, belted waist and large pockets give it a timeless look, while the quick-drying, anti-insect and sun-protective ottoman fabric make it perfect for hot climates. The dress features a sun-protective collar, roll-up sleeves, drying loops and a modesty button for added convenience. Make sure you match with a safari hat for extra protection. With its practicality, comfort and stylish appeal, this dress is a must-have for your safari.

Craghoppers Nosibotanical Nicolet Dress

Get ready for your safari in ultimate style with the Nosibotanical Nicolet Dress . This shift-style travel dress is not only fashionable but also functional. Made from a soft linen-and-cotton twill fabric, it features lace trim, an elasticated waist and pintuck detail, as well as 5 handy pockets. With the added benefit of the naturally derived NosiBotanical anti-insect treatment, you can ward off biting insects while staying cool and comfortable. The dress also comes with a zipped security pocket for your essentials. Don’t miss out on this chic and practical dress for your safari adventure.

Ayacucho Goa Shirt Dress

​Get ready for your safari adventure with the Ayacucho Goa Shirt Dress . This comfortable and versatile dress is perfect for walks, everyday use, and travel. Made from a blend of hemp, viscose, and spandex, it offers a soft and breathable feel on the skin. The dress features multiple handy pockets for your essentials and comes with a waist belt for a flattering fit. With its lightweight and breathable design, it’s ideal for warmer days in the sun.

Barbour Amelda Jumpsuit

Elevate your safari style with the Barbour Amelda Jumpsuit . Crafted from a breathable cotton and linen blend fabric, this jumpsuit is perfect for wearing on safari, but also for leisurely strolls in the sun or simply enjoying the local cafes and bars. It features stitched utility pockets for your essentials, a self-tie fabric belt and mock horn button fastenings for added style. The lightweight and sleeveless design ensures comfort in warm weather.

Royal Robbins Spotless Evolution Dress

Experience the ultimate comfort and style on your African safari with the Royal Robbins Spotless Evolution Dress . This sustainable dress combines two fabrics to provide a perfect fit, breathability, and stretch performance. Featuring innovative Spotless HeiQ Stain Away technology, this dress repels stains effortlessly, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. It dries quickly, keeping you cool and comfortable, and its moisture-wicking properties ensure you stay dry even in hot climates. The adjustable waist and dropped short sleeves add a touch of versatility and practicality.

Vintage Safari Summer Dress

Experience the adventure in style with this Vintage Safari Summer Dress . Crafted with a perfect blend of cotton and polyamide, this dress offers both comfort and durability for your safari escapades. The belted design accentuates your figure while the short sleeves and polo collar provide a classic touch. With its functional pocket and button-down feature, it’s not only fashionable but also practical for carrying your essentials on the go. Handmade in Istanbul, Turkey, renowned for its high-quality textiles, this dress embodies the spirit of adventure and the craftsmanship of experienced artists. This minimalist and affordable safari dress combines style and functionality seamlessly. Get ready to explore the wild with confidence and make your safari truly unforgettable!

Safari Dress

Another perfect dress for your safari adventure is this one by RenateRoseLV , a contemporary and full-length dress that combines military and safari styles. Made from 100% soft natural washed linen, this dress offers comfort, breathability, and durability. With its snap button, side pockets, breast pockets, and adjustable waist, it provides both functionality and style. Whether you prefer to wear it alone or layer it with a top and pants, this dress is suitable for both young girls and older ladies. Its elegant and minimal design ensures that you feel feminine and beautifully dressed while enjoying maximum comfort.

Choosing the right attire for your next safari adventure can greatly enhance your comfort, style and overall experience. By opting for lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, and selecting versatile safari dresses and jumpsuits, you’ll not only blend in with the natural surroundings but also stay cool and protected throughout the journey. 

With these top picks in mind, you’ll be ready to embark on your safari with style, confidence and comfort. Happy exploring!

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

Women's outdoor safari skorts & safari dresses

Styled for Africa, made for everyday wear. Enjoy your next outdoor or adventure without compromising on femininity with our safari-styled dresses and skorts. From dinner and drinks, to climbing up and down hills, or in and out of game drive vehicles, experience freedom of movement in chic, classic designs.

• Safari Clothing
• Women's Dresses & Skorts
• Boys' & Girls'
• Trousers & Shorts
• Jackets & Fleeces
• Safari Hats
• Beanies & Scarves
• Dresses & Skorts x
• Shoes & Boots
• Socks & Ankle Gaiters
• Holdalls & Duffle Bags
• Weekenders & Carry-ons
• Backpacks, Satchels & Small Bags
• Toiletry Bags for Travel
• Totes & Champagne Coolers
• Business bags
• Luggage Trolley
• Pannier Bags
• Pet Feeders
• Locks & Scales
• Gift Vouchers
• Books & Maps
• Multi-tools
• Insect Repellent
• Torches (flashlights)
• Straps & Mounts
• Trophy Cameras
• Binocular Photography
• Cleaning Kits
• Essential Accessories
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Adaptors
• Evenings, Outdoor & Travel Clothing
• Outdoor, Travel & More
• Safe drinking water
• Rufiji™
• Mara&Meru™

Technologies

• Sun Protection
• Anti-bacterial
• Wicking & QuickDry
• MaraTech™
• Feminine cut

Women's Safari Dresses & Skorts Read our Women's Safari Dresses & Skorts Advice Guide

• Pack a women's safari dress and a pair of women's safari skorts to add variety to your wardrobe.
• Ensure that you select women's safari dresses and skorts which are made in safari-suitable colours.
• A women's safari dress can also be very versatile when worn with tights, as a longer shirt, or tucked into your safari trousers.
• Women's safari skorts - which are a combination of shorts and a skirt, with the shorts inside the skorts - are great for safaris in 4x4s as you are able to climb on to and off of the game drive vehicle without worrying about your underwear showing.
• While, by their design, both safari dresses and safari skorts do allow for a good flow of air around the body to keep you cool, it is still worth looking for styles made in technical fabrics simply as they are usually lighter, easier to pack, and perform better in the heat.

Pack any combination of women's safari dresses & skorts to get the following totals: Up to 4-day safari: x 1 to 2; Up to 8-day safari: x 2 to 3; Up to 12-day safari: x 3 to 4

Women's Serengeti Safari sKorts with Stretch in Savannah

Women's serengeti safari skorts with stretch in forest, women's rufiji™ maratech™ safari skorts in serengeti stone, women's rufiji™ maratech™ safari skorts in okavango olive, mara&meru™ all day casual safari dress in safari forest green.

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Best safari clothing: brands, clothes & tips for African safaris

You’re off on safari! You’ve done all the research , purchased the guide books , and the tickets are hot in your hand.

But most importantly, you’re getting ready to pack your ultra-light bag with everything you’ll need for your trip of a lifetime.

You’ve read all the advice you can handle (perhaps even this post on how to pack for safaris for your African bush adventure).

But when it comes down to the line, you still have no idea whether your favorite sweater is going to be a help or a hindrance, if you should pack jeans, how many pairs of socks are enough, and what on earth to expect once you are out in the wild.

What to wear on safari is something of a conundrum , the answer to which is entirely dependent on whether you are a complete slave to fashion and constantly worry about your appearance.

Or whether you don’t care if your trousers absolutely match your shirt and if your shoes co-ordinate properly with your camera bag.

So, in a bid to help sort the wheat from the chaff when it comes to safari style, this guide aims to highlight the best safari clothing brands and tips for your next trip to Africa .

African Safari Clothes: 7 Useful Tips

The African savanna has seen virtually every take on both the best and worst dressed safari goers , including some of the most practical and impractical safari gear around.

This includes everything from haute couture animal prints hot off the Milan catwalk, to Prada stilettos getting stuck in between the slats of wooden decks, and $300 silk scarves ripped to shreds by thorn bushes.

There are also tales of wild baboons getting hold of Victoria’s Secret lingerie and leaving it draped for all to see high in the branches of an acacia tree.

There are plenty of stories about complete wardrobe disasters—but to ensure you’re not one of them, here is a list of useful tips on how to dress for safaris .

1. Leave the luxury safari clothing at home

Lesson 1 in safari style is to NEVER take your best clothes into the bush .

If you find a pair of shorts, trousers, or a top you love and know that it would break your heart to have it ruined on safari, it’s probably best to leave it at home .

Instead, look for clothing that is specifically suited for the wild . And if the item comes in different colors, buy the range!

This way, over the years, you’ll acquire a variety of clothes which come everywhere with you. Look out for clothes that you can team together to create practical yet stylish outfits.

2. Keep your clothes for safari simple

Lesson 2 is learning how many of each item you will need . As a rule of thumb, always go with four of the basics.

Four pairs of shorts , four pairs of cut-off pants , four string vests , four t-shirts , four pairs of long pants , four button-through shirts (two of which are long-sleeved), four sets of underwear , four pairs of socks … you get the drift, I am sure!

When traveling in winter or during the colder months of the year, add to this scenario two lightweight long-sleeve t-shirts and two knitted sweaters , plus two fleeces or warm jackets , thermal long johns , gloves , a scarf , and a beanie .

When considering your safari apparel, ALWAYS pack a swimsuit and a couple of sarongs/kikoys . Even in the winter, it’s usually warm enough to suntan during the day and sometimes even swim.

3. Your safari wear should include comfortable shoes

Lesson 3 concerns footwear . In the heat of the summer, it is best to pack at least two pairs of “bush slops” – flip flops (thongs) which are heavy-duty, waterproof, and good enough to handle walking in the light bush for game drives.

You may also need two or three pairs of fashionable flip-flops or sandals for around camp and evening meals, and a pair of good walking shoes ( Merrells ) for walking safaris.

In the winter, replace the walking shoes with walking boots and add a pair of lightweight faux-fur lined “trendy” flat boots for evening wear.

4. Safari fashion: accessories

Accessorize – that’s the key to lesson 4 – it’s the difference between a good safari wardrobe and a bad one. Two or three lightweight colored scarves and/or wraps are a must in any safari bag .

Usually, they have beadwork or applique of some description on them. These are useful for dressing up even the most conservative safari outfit—great if you’re looking to add a dash of glamor to your evening meals. Team them up with a couple of great “ethnic” bead necklaces and earrings .

Another essential item to include with your safari attire is a hat —and these can most certainly be fun. Pack in a couple of lightweight, floppy straw sun-hats, as these are great for game drives or tiger fishing.

Another good option is the usual peak baseball-style caps.

5. What to wear on safari – quality

Lesson 5 is all about quality . Everything you take into the bush with you needs to stand the test of time.

This includes the elements of the African wild, the rigors of hand-washing, and bumping and grinding in the back of a safari vehicle halfway across Africa.

So it’s important to check your clothes before you pack to make sure they can be hand-washed, aren’t going to fall apart the first time you wear them, and are not likely to fade too drastically when hung in the sun to dry.

The material of your clothing is also important. When out in the wild, it is best to stick to strong natural materials like hemp , linen , leather , and wool .

Nylon and polyester also tend to provide adequate protection against the elements.

6. Best safari clothing brands

Wondering where to buy safari clothes? Most of the high-street fashion chains carry good quality fashionable safari clothes which will stand up to the average safari conditions.

As such, you may be able to avoid the need to go to specialist outfitters and camping/outdoor stores where things tend to cost a lot more.

And, of course, the big brands like Jeep (a favorite with safari goers because their clothes are practical, hard-wearing, and pretty at the same time) and Cat always have some great clothes for safaris—including some of the best safari shirts.

In addition to these, here are several more reliable brands to consider when buying safari clothes:

• Columbia — this is a good option for those seeking affordable safari clothing that is still good quality.
• First Ascent — if you’re buying safari clothes in South Africa, keep an eye out for this brand as it offers some excellent quality clothing.
• Patagonia — while the brand is more expensive, they provide some of the highest quality outdoor clothing and gear on the market.
• REI — if you’re shopping online, REI is often the go-to for outdoor gear. Their house brand is affordable and offers many items that will serve you well on your safari.
• Ruggedwear — proudly South African, it is an official partner of the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA).
• Sapmok — footwear for every adventure. Comfy. Durable. And stylish.

7. What color clothing for African safaris

Finally, lesson 7 concerns white . Do you take white clothes into the bush with you? Hell yes.

As long as you don’t expect them to remain white for long and can accept the fact that no matter where you wear them, they’re bound to get a little dirty. It’s more or less a bush essential in my book because it reflects sunlight , keeps you cool and goes with everything .

Everyone says, “don’t wear white on a safari vehicle,” – but this is far from the truth. However, white isn’t the only color that’s good for safaris.

When dressing for safaris, the basic color range is simple: khaki , beige , white, and brown (or variations thereof).

Avoid black and blue during the day because they attract tsetse flies .

But do occasionally take these colors for evening wear when the tsetses have gone to bed.

What to Wear on an African Safari: Checklist

Now that you’re all clued up with what to consider when deciding what clothes to wear on a safari, it’s time to pack.

Here’s a checklist to ensure you don’t miss anything.

Africa safari clothing list

Below are some of the most essential pieces of clothing to bring along on a safari:

• 4 safari shirts
• 4 casual t-shirts or vests
• 4 safari pants or shorts
• 4 pairs of blister-proof socks for safari walks
• 3 pairs of pajamas
• 2 warm fleece tops or jackets (good for a summer or winter safari outfit)
• 2 pairs of flip-flops or sandals (one for the wild and one for at the lodge)
• 2 safari dresses (for at the lodge)
• 2 swimming costumes
• 1 waterproof jacket
• 1 kikoy or sarong
• 1 wide-brim hat or baseball cap
• 1 pair of safari shoes or boots

Safari gear and accessories list

In addition to clothing, you should include the following items when packing for a safari:

• 4 pairs of anti-chafing tights (good for walking safaris)
• 2 pairs of garden gloves (useful for gorilla trekking safaris)
• 2 pairs of ankle gaiters
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 bottle of sunscreen
• 1 safari belt

Start Packing Your African Safari Clothing

There’s nothing quite like getting down and dirty on an African safari. Whether you’re going on a game drive or a walking safari, you’re sure to come in contact with the various elements of the wild—and not to mention the wildlife, too.

For this reason, having the correct clothing is important . This will protect you during excursions and allow you to blend in better with the natural environment.

So next time you’re contemplating what to wear on African safaris, review the list above . These useful tips will guarantee you have a pleasant experience, both at the lodge and in the bush.

So what are you waiting for? Check out these incredible African safari deals and start packing!

About The Author

Sharon van Wyk

Related posts.

African safari packing list – What to bring on a trip to Africa

Best safari luggage – Duffel bags & backpacks for African travels

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Best Women’s Safari Clothing for Africa Overland Travel

Africa Packing Lists , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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Planning a safari or overland tour through one of Africa’s incredible game parks? This is the best womens safari clothing for your trip. Read our complete guide to find out exactly what to wear on safari!

Women Safari Clothing

Table of contents.

An African safari is one of the most exciting trips you can take as a traveler. Roughing it in the wilderness surrounded by the Big 5 is truly a thrilling experience. There are several things to keep in mind when you choose safari clothing for this type of adventure.

How should I dress for an African safari?

The focus of your safari attire should be on comfortable safari clothing in neutral colors and light fabrics. If it’s not something you would feel comfortable wearing something on an overnight flight, it’s best to keep it out of your safari gear.

Safari clothes for Africa should be relaxed, so you can enjoy the experience to the fullest. The drive time on overland trips can vary anywhere from 6 to 12 hours each day. Making comfort key on those long-haul journeys — the distances in Africa are massive!

Expect your safari clothing to be covered in dust and keep in mind that you won’t have much time to do laundry. Your safari clothes should feature synthetic fabrics that are hard wearing, quick-dry, easy to wash, and won’t show dirt or dust.

What to Wear on Safari

When it comes to options for what to wear on an African safari, womens travel brands tend to feature technical fabrics focusing primarily on khaki and olive colors. But unless you’re planning to live in the bush or are taking a Gorilla trekking trip to the jungle, it’s likely that this type of clothing isn’t necessary.

The majority of Africa safari tours will see you viewing animals within the confines of a vehicle, whether a giant overland truck or 4×4 car. This means that the khaki safari shirt or safari pants that you purchased will tragically go to waste.

Safari Clothing Essentials Packing Guide: An Overview

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of your clothing options, let’s take a look at an overall view of what your safari gear for your travel capsule wardrobe should consist of. Here’s a quick snapshot of the amount of what should be on your bag when you’re planning what to wear on an African safari.

TFG Recommended Clothing List

4 sleeveless or short-sleeve tops 2 long-sleeve tops 1 dress or skirt 4 pants 1 shorts 1 windbreaker jacket 1 fleece or warm jacket 1 swimsuit 3 bras (sports bras are recommended) 3 socks 7-10 underwear 1 jacket 1 scarf 1 sunglasses

TFG Recommended Shoe List

1 pair comfortable sneakers 1 pair flip-flops

What is the Best Women Safari Clothing?

Whether you’re looking for what to wear on safari in Kenya or are camping in the Serengeti, you need the best of the best when it comes to your safari clothing. Our selections offer you a nice range of safari pants, tops, dresses, and even safari jackets. That way you can be confident and comfortable on your jaunt in Africa!

Best of all? You can avoid the head-to-toe khaki safari outfits that somehow became the must-have on an African safari. Here are some realistic clothing pieces you’ll love carting along with you:

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Eddie Bauer Resolution T-Shirt 

Best Safari Shirts for Women

As you plan what safari clothes to pack, make sure to bring a variety of tops and include sleeveless tanks, short sleeve tees, and long sleeves that you can layer!

The best safari shirts for the day time and warm weather are sleeveless or short sleeved breathable, moisture wicking tees in neutral colors.

For really hot days or to layer underneath warm items if cold, add a couple of casual tees. These also will be beneficial for those long safari travel days (read more on this in the Pants section below).

Stay cool with these moisture wicking shirts !

Shop Sizes XS-4X: Smartwool Merino Short Sleeve

Merino wool tops are some of the best safari shirts because they are both practical and can be re-worn without washing. This is particularly important on longer safari trips when you won’t have access to laundry for extended periods of time.

However, If you plan to hand wash your merino wool tops you’ll have to wait until you spend two or more nights in one location to allow time for the clothes to dry. This is why either quick-dry or long-lasting items are the best as safari clothes.

While merino wool is more expensive, you can get away with bringing just a few tops and then re-wearing them every few days. This is key for packing light!

Merino wool Icebreaker tops like these have a higher price point but are excellent for safari trips because they’re practical and you can rewear them (for weeks) without washing.

Learn more about how to hand wash while traveling !

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Icebreaker Merino Women’s Siren Tank

If you are traveling in hot weather, you might prefer a sleeveless top like the Icebreaker Merino Women’s Siren Tank  one pictured above (perfect safari shirt). Like the short sleeve tops, the ideal fabrics are from performance brands with quick dry 100% cotton, merino wool, or synthetics.

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Columbia Cades Cape Tank

If you’re looking for a sleeveless safari shirt that’s less body hugging, then one like the Columbia shown here is perfect.

A sleeveless top not only helps to keep you cool on your safari days, but it can also be dressed up when you’re visiting the city! Pair it with a cute skirt and you have an instant evening outfit. Double-duty top!

Plus, it also looks the part of an African safari shirt!

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Columbia Quick Dry Sun UV Protection Convertible Long Sleeve

For the sunny days you’ll want to bring one light but practical womens long sleeve safari shirt to protect you from the sun’s beating rays. This will be a piece you’ll want to re-wear, so we advise choosing a quick dry fabric so that when you wash it, it will dry relatively quickly!

The dark khaki convertible womens long sleeve safari shirt (pictured above) is not only quick dry, but it’s specifically designed for UV protection. Plus, with it being convertible you can make the sleeves longer and shorter based on your preference.

Shop Columbia Silver Ridge Lite Long Sleeve : Amazon | Columbia (Sizes XS-3X)

Can you wear grey on safari? Grey is a great color choice for safari clothes along with other medium to dark neutral colors like khaki. These colors are good choices due to the fact that your clothes are likely to collect a lot of dust, especially the ones you use for the outer layers, and the darker neutral colors are able of masking it.

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Unbound Merino Long Sleeve

When you’re planning what to wear on a safari, make sure to bring at least one warm long sleeve or thermal top . You should also include a long-sleeve blouse you can use to cover you from the winter sun and to wear in the cities.

Depending on the time of year you’re headed on your safari and the region in Africa that you’re going to, you might need to add a few extra long sleeve tops to your safari wardrobe to layer at night. It can get pretty cold!

Safari Packing Tip : You’ll want to keep your safari attire as light as possible. To keep your packing light, make sure to include six to eight safari shirts. Any more and you’ll be overpacking!

Best Safari Pants for Women

When you are actually on a safari, you are much more likely to be going inside of a vehicle — walking safaris aren’t the norm. Being inside a vehicle allows for the undisturbed observation of the wildlife in a natural setting. Perfect for safari adventurers!

Of course, it’s best not to assume. So if you aren’t sure that you’ll be in a vehicle, double-check with your tour operator (if you have one).

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

It might surprise (and excite you) to find out that some of the best pants for safari are leggings. Seriously! This is specifically the case when you are taking a driving safari tour, NOT if you are getting out of the vehicle and walking in the bush.

Leggings are the perfect safari pants choice for comfort. Avoid choosing thick fabrics that will take too long to dry if you are hand washing them.

Leggings are also great for travel days. If you’re looking for leggings to take on your safari, TFG readers voted for the best leggings for women , so you’re bound to find a pair you like! We also really love these leggings from Zella (which are also available in plus size ).

Leggings are the most comfortable, packabe safari pants. So they’re definitely a good choice to wear on safari. While you can easily wear a pair of black leggings when you’re inside the vehicle, you might want to consider a lighter color to wear outdoors by the campfire (you’ll thank us later).

Safari Packing Tip : Make sure to choose a legging color that you can easily re-wear in-between washes!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Scuba Mid-Rise Pant

If leggings aren’t your thing, a good alternative is casual joggers. Lululemon — a much-loved brand by yogis and travelers alike — makes a great pair of chic joggers which are great safari pants. They also make some pretty nice leggings too! 

The travel-friendly fabric in these safari pants makes them easy to clean and de-wrinkle. Plus, with four-way stretch and a drawstring waist, you can wear them comfortably on the longest of overland safari rides!

Shop Sizes 2-24: Amazon | Columbia  |  Zappos

When you first think about what to wear on African safari, you might imagine an outfit consisting of a khaki button down shirt and convertible trousers. But generally speaking, convertible pants are not a necessary item to add to your safari attire (unless they make you comfortable and confident, that is).

We recommend a modern-yet-functional pair of travel pants like Saturday Trail Pants by Columbia . Not only are these safari pants versatile, but more importantly they’re comfortable! They also pack light, dry quickly and don’t stain easily — what more are you looking for in your safari pants?

As an added bonus, they have a stretchy pull-up waist band that’s sitting down for long periods of time. It’s also easy to remove for quick bathrooms stops on an overland trip.

Here are 16 best hiking pants for women that are lightweight and practical!

Shop prAna Halle Pant: Amazon | prAna

If you’re looking for both more traditional and budget-friendly safari pants, these prAna travel pants are for you! Both safari pants are ideal for walking safari tours or trips that will incorporate both extensive time outdoors and inside a vehicle.

If you are going to be trekking through the bushes, we highly recommend making technical womens safari clothing part of your wardrobe.

When you’re planning on what to wear on safari, make sure you always pack a pair of safari shorts! Safari shorts are casual and easy-to-wear on hot days.

You might also want to consider including a breezy long skirt or sarong. Both make it easier to “pop a squat” on the side of the road without baring it all to your tour mates!

Travel Tip : There aren’t usually bathrooms along the long roads, and stops are typically infrequent.

Shop Sizes 26-40: Levi’s Classic Straight Jeans

Can you wear jeans on safari? Jeans are a must, especially if you’re traveling in the winter! Sometimes the best women’s safari clothing isn’t necessarily the most technical travel gear. Jeans are not only practical, but they’ll provide you with warmth disguise dirt, and also give you a bit of style if you make a top in a major city like Cape Town!

But make sure not to hand wash your jeans! They’ll take way too long to dry. Denim is practical because you can re-wear it constantly without washing it. Denim designers make them specifically for multiple uses, and it’s one of the main reasons that modern travelers pack jeans. Jeans are a must-have when it comes to what to wear on safari !

You’ll also want to have a comfortable pair of pants that you can wear around the campsite at night.

Safari Packing Tip : Make sure you’re packing light. You should need no more than 5 pairs of safari pants.

Best Safari Dresses

Shop Columbia Freezer III Dress: Amazon | Columbia (Sizes XS-3X)

A dress may sound like the exact opposite of safari clothing. But, it’s always good to have at least one dress that you can sport on the beach in Zanzibar or wear out to a nice dinner at Victoria Falls.

The best safari dress is a little black dress that you can dress up for restaurants or a fun night out in the city. This one by Columbia features wicking, cooling, and sun protection fabric. Plus it’s available in sizes up to 3XL.

Shop Sizes S-3X: Riviera Sun Tie Dye Summer Dress

When it’s hot, a loose and lightweight safari dress is also ideal for those long overland trips. In fact, dresses are more practical than pants — especially when you need to stop on the side of the road for a quick bathroom break in the bush along with your fellow tour mates!

When it comes to picking the best safari dress, choose something both versatile and comfortable. When it comes to choosing what to wear on safari, you’ll want a dress that can be worn on the beach and doubled for dinner and night on the town!

Shop Sizes XS-3X: WEACZZYLoose Trapeze Dress

If you aren’t a person that’s comfortable in dresses, you simply don’t like them or you’re going to be traveling when it’s colder, a long tunic top that covers your backside cans also do the trick for those safari roadside bathroom stops.

Long tunic tops can be versatile just like a safari dress — you can wear it in the camp after a shower, on the beach over your bathing suit, loosely over a comfy pair of safari pants or tick it into your shorts for a cute but casual safari outfit!

Shop One Size: ToBeInStyle Strapless Dress

REALLY IMPORTANT TRAVEL TIP : WHEN PLANNING WHAT TO WEAR ON SAFARI, AVOID ROMPERS. ESPECIALLY ON AN OVERLAND TRIP FOR TRAVEL DAYS . YOU DON’T WANT TO HAVE TO PULL OFF YOUR ENTIRE ROMPER TO USE THE BATHROOM ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. NOT COOL .

If you’re something that has the same comfy and lightweight feel as a romper, opt for a strapless sundress like the ToBeInSty Strapless (seen above). You can wear it as a safari dress during the day for those long safari travel days or layer it over your leggings if it gets cold outside.

A strapless dress can also be worn as a safari skirt. Simply pair it with a cute top and dress it up with some jewelry that you find at a local shop during your travels!

Remember to avoid choosing bright colors on a safari so you don’t draw attention away from the safari (or frighten away any animals!). But if you pack bright colors in your safari wardrobe, you can wear them on travel days when you’re not on a game drive.

If you’re looking for maximum versatility, one of these convertible travel dresses might be perfect for your safari attire!

Best Safari Clothing for Cold Weather

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Terramar Silk Undershirts  |  Terramar Silk Thermal Pants

Contrary to what you might think, it does get cold in Africa. That means that layering your safari clothes is key to surviving those cold African days. We’ve previously written about how to layer for cold weather , we’d highly recommend you take a peek before you start packing!

Regional climates in Africa vary throughout the season, so be prepared to encounter both hot and cold temperature. Make sure you always check the weather forecast before you go so you’re dressed right!

If you happen to be traveling during the cold season, from May to August, you might want to consider packing a set of thermals for women  with your safari clothes so you can stay warm. You can wear them up to two weeks (or longer) without having to wash them!

Safari Packing Tip : For maximum warmth, pack one set of merino wool thermals. Especially if you’re camping in the winter!

Best Women’s Jacket for Safari

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Columbia Womens Arcadia II Rain Jacket

As you’re preparing your safari clothing checklist, make sure you pack a good jacket for safari. The roof and windows of some safari vehicles are open as you drive around the parks. With those open windows it can get quite chilly both at dawn and during night drives.

When you’re looking for the best jackets for safari, you should look for a good, quality jacket that can also serve as a windbreaker. You’re sure to feel a chill in the air with an open window first thing in the morning!

Shop Columbia Full Zip Fleece Jacket: Amazon | Columbia  (Sizes XS-3X)

A travel fleece or rain jacket for safari are most needed when you’re doing an African overland trip that crosses various countries. When deciding what to wear on safari, make sure you don’t underestimate how cold it could get in Africa on your trip!

While it might be hot and sunny during the day, when the temperature drops at night you’ll be glad you packed a rain jacket and fleece in your safari clothes. TFG has a list of the best windproof jackets and fleece jackets for your travels.

When you’re packing your safari wardrobe, make sure you pack both a windproof jacket and a merino wool or fleece jacket for safari clothes.

Shop Columbia Switchback Jacket: Amazon | Columbia (Sizes XS-3X)

Remember to choose neutral tones for your safari clothing. This is especially the case for items that are highly visible such as your jacket for safari.

Trust me on this one. If you’re head is hanging out of a vehicle at 5:30am, you’ll feel the crisp morning air and wish you had a warm jacket — it happened to me!

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Style & Co Safari Jacket

For a stylish jacket for safari option that you can wear as part of your safari outfit, the Style & Co Safari Jacket is both chic and practical. When it comes to choosing a jacket for safari that’s neutral, easy-to-clean and will hide the dust, go for the grey, khaki, or olive green color!

Best Safari Shoes

Shop Merrell Moab 3 Shoe: Amazon | Zappos

Now that you’re packed and ready with your safari clothing, it’s time to plan your safari shoes! This is probably going to be much easier than you think!

We recommend taking only two pairs of shoes. When it comes to picking those safari shoes, go with a pair of sneakers and flip flops (for camps, shower, and beaches). Your sneakers should be something comfortable you can wear on the truck, for occasional safari walks, and at the campsite at night if it’s cold.

However, if your safari itinerary includes walking safaris, you’ll need substantial sturdy safari shoes. For multi-day treks through the jungle, you’ll want to bring sturdy hiking boots . But for the occasional day trip, regular all-terrain sneakers or hiking shoes will work as safari shoes.

Ideally, you’ll want your safari shoes to be waterproof and easy to clean in case they get muddy or otherwise dirty.

FitFlop Iqushion Super-Ergonomic Flip-Flops

Flip-flops may seem like a random item to add to this safari packing list. But it’s nice to air out your toes if you’ve had them in sneakers all day. Flip-flops are also great safari shoes as they’re convenient to wear in camp showers. And don’t forget about the beach!

Not a big fan of flip-flops? Try one of these slip-on beach sandals as your second pair of safari shoes instead. Throw in a pair of cute ankle boots or stylish slip ons if you’re traveling in Cape Town .

But make sure not to add too many shoes to your safari wardrobe!

Best Safari Socks

Darn Tough Crew Socks

Whether you need to pair your socks with safari boots or sneakers, make sure they are moisture wicking socks ! This is particularly important so you can keep your sock numbers down.

I know we’ve mentioned merino wool a lot, but just as with the rest of our suggested safari clothing, merino wool socks are perfect to pair with your safari shoes because you can rewear them multiple times without having to wash them.

Kirkland Signature Trail Sock

Several TFG readers agreed that Kirkland’s merino wool socks are a great pick to add to your safari wardrobe. One reader says, “I wash them in cold water and hang them to air dry, but they have held up really well and keep my feet warm, too.”

If you’re camping, you can bring a pair of Kirkland socks (like the ones shown above) to keep your feet warm at night. If you choose dark colors or prints they won’t show the dust as easily.

Best Bras and Underwear for Safari

Panache Underwire Sports Bra

Last but not least for your safari travel checklist, make sure to pack a good sports bra for the bumpy journey! Vehicles in Kenya, and other countries, often cover all terrains including deeply rutted roads and huge potholes.

Make your ride more tolerable by wearing a sports bra whenever you are being transported. Also, take some motion sickness meds beforehand if you are prone to car sickness.

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Icebreaker Siren Merino Wool Bikini

Also, quick dry travel underwear helps you easily do laundry without having to wait ages for it to dry!

Because you may be moving locations every night, you won’t have much time to wash your safari clothing, so it’s best if you bring fast drying fabrics or clothing you can re-wear easily.

Safari Travel Tip: Most of the time, you’ll be popping a squat on the side of the road, so a female urinary device or even a flowy skirt might be helpful if you’re not crazy about the idea of flashing your goods. Don’t forget your antibacterial hand wipes!

Other Safari Gear

UPF 50+ Sun Protection Quick Dry Baseball Cap

TFG has a great post on what to pack for African safari tours that we’d highly encourage you to check out so you know what other safari gear you’re going to need on your trip!

To go along with your safari clothing choices, you’ll need a few accessories.

Hats are great because they can help shield you from the sun and hide unwashed hair. But while hats are a definite must, but that doesn’t mean they have to be unattractive.

When it comes to your hair, you will want to keep it covered and pulled back in a ponytail or bun so it doesn’t get tangled in the wind and full of dirt from the road. We have a few suggestions for some hair accessories that will help keep high maintenance hair on the down low during your safari tour.

Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet

Sunglasses are also a must-have, they offer shade and protection from the sun which is really important considering how close to the equator you’re going to be! A few other safari necessary accessories include a bathing suit and scarf.

Don’t be a target for unwanted attention. When you choose what to wear on safari, make sure you don’t dress too flashy or showy. Make sure you don’t bring any of your expensive jewelry and leave your designer handbags at home (or another safe place).

Finally, conceal the majority of your money and extra credit cards for extra safety. This bra wallet is a great way to do that!

We’ve got some great anti-theft tips for you so you can protect your valuables during your safari travels.

Essential Packing List for Safari

Shop Osprey Fairview 55L: Amazon | Osprey

Which luggage should I choose for safari?

When it comes to choosing luggage for safari, check out the Osprey Fairview 55L . It’s kind of perfection.

I found it easier to lug a soft bag than a suitcase, as everyone’s gear gets piled up under the truck. I personally use it with the Compass Rose packing cubes to stay organized and fit in everything!

Don’t worry so much about the baggage weight. My bag never goes over 30 lbs using the guidelines suggested on the site. If you aim to pack light, you shouldn’t be overpacking!

Left:  Compass Rose Medium Packing Cubes  (13″ x 8.5″ x 2.8″) | Right:  Compass Rose Slim Packing Cubes  (13″ x 5″ x 2.8″)

Should I use packing cubes on safari?

Yes! You should definitely use packing cubes on safari. Packing cubes will help keep you organized, keep your bag light, and help you avoid over packing.

Many readers use our packing cubes for this task. The  Compass Rose Packing Cubes  are now offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The  slim size cubes  measure 13 x 5 x 2.8, and the  medium size cubes  measure 2.8 x 13 x 8.5. Both fit an international carry-on suticase and can help you organize and compress clothing items. The medium sizes is great for bulkier items.

Watch this video to learn how to pack light thanks to packing cubes!

pStyle Urinary Device

What should I pack for toiletries on safari?

When it comes to what you need to pack for toiletries on safari, there are a few things you’re definitely going to need.

You definitely will want to have a female urinary device , because the only bathroom breaks you get are in the bush. Finding adequate coverage can be a challenge, so you might also need to get comfortable with flashing your bum at other women on the trip!

You’ll want to bring a travel towel so that it can dry quickly when you’re constantly on the go. You should also pack any prescriptions you might need along with mosquito repellent … don’t forget that! And while it’s not exactly a toiletry, you’ll want a collapsible water bottle , too!

If you’re going to go the carry-on only route, make sure you cut back on your toiletries. It’ll help with TSA if you put all of your liquids in a Ziploc bag, following the 3-1-1 rule !

Learn all about packing toiletries with this guide !

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

What should I take for a purse on safari?

You’ll want to choose a bag that can fit into your carry-on when it comes to the perfect purse for safari. TFG recommends taking a crossbody travel purse with anti-theft features like the Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag bag or other similar purse.

See our picks for the best anti-theft purses for travel .

Lewis N. Clark Deluxe Neck Stash

What anti-theft accessories do I need on safari?

We recommend you make sure your purse is built for security. Other great anti-theft accessories for safari might include a secret bra wallet , neck wallet , or even a money belt.

Read about popular anti-theft accessories !

International Travel Adapter

What electronics do I need on safari?

A headlamp will be a lifesaver when it comes to camping at night during your safari.

A few other things that might come in handy include a travel adapter , portable battery charger , and your headphones . Plus, if you’re planning on taking any pictures, you’re going to need your camera and gear!

Printable Travel Checklist

Don’t forget to download the TFG Printable Travel Checklist

The Dos and Don’ts of Safari Clothing Packing

Packing for your African safari can seem overwhelming, so let’s finish off by going over our main dos and don’ts when it comes to getting together your safari gear and planning your safari attire!

What should you not wear on safari?

What you shouldn’t wear for an African safari depends highly on the actual trip type that you’re participating in. An overland trip that touches on a variety of countries is going to mean different must-haves from a short safari to Kruger Park that’s smack in the middle of a longer trip.

If your African safari trip is long, you’re going to want to focus on making comfortable, practical safari clothing a priority. But if you’re headed on a short three-day trip, you can definitely get by with wearing regular clothes.

But for both trips, we highly recommend that you DO NOT wear a romper on a safari — three days, seven days or otherwise. We know that we’ve mentioned this before, but it’s such an important note that we want to talk about it in a little more detail!

When you’re on an overland safari trip, it’s common place to simply pull over on the side of the road to go to the bathroom — in public — as there really aren’t bathrooms along the way. The reason why we stress that you shouldn’t wear rompers is due to the fact that going to bathroom in a romper means taking all of your clothes off to go to the bathroom.

While you might be able to find a somewhat “discreet” spot in the pushes to pop a squat, you’ll still be pulling off your entire romper in public and it’s much harder to attempt to conceal the top and bottom half of your body at the same time. It’s much easier to focus on covering your backside.

We know you’ll thank us for this advice later!

What colors should you wear on safari?

As exciting as it is to experience nature in its rawest form, you don’t have to immerse yourself to the extent that your safari clothing completely blends in with the foliage and desert itself. We can leave that for the Hollywood movies!

With that in mind, the best colors for safari clothes include:

• Olive green

A tip for picking the best color for your safari clothing is to go with colors that are inspired by nature. Measure your clothes with the image above, if they’re in the same tone, intensity and relatively the same color they’re good to go. You’re looking to blend in, but you don’t have to look like Crocodile Dundee or wear full tactical gear!

What color should you not wear on safari?

If you’ve done your safari clothing due diligence, chances are you’ve come across something that tells you not to wear bright colors. It seems like a strange request, but it’s recommended that you choose neutral colors because you don’t want the animals to see you — if they do they might be scared off!

Stick to neutral colors but avoid white because your safari clothes are bound to get very dirty, especially if you’re camping, and white will show it all!

Can you wear black on safari?

Wearing black on safari is not recommended. Black clothing attracts mosquitoes, and you’ll want to avoid that as much as possible to keep your trip its most enjoyable!

If you do end up bringing some black pieces, keep them to a minimum and opt for lightweight fabrics wherever possible!

What are your tips on choosing the best womens safari clothing? Share and comment below!

For more Africa packing lists, please read:

• What to Pack for Safari: South Africa to Zimbabwe
• What to Pack for Africa: Safari and Beaches
• Africa Travel Packing Tips
• 10 Essential You Absolutely Need for Safari

Suggested Travel Resource:

• Lonely Planet Tanzania
• Lonely Planet South Africa
• Lonely Planet Africa on a Budget

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63 comments.

I’m going on a safari next week, and the packing list looks like it would be a lifesaver, but I’m getting an error that the page is unavailable when I click on it. Anything I’m missing? Thanks!!

Hi Amy, I am so sorry about this. Please can you email us at [email protected] so we can send it over to you.

Have a wonderful time on your Safari!

On August 2, 2022, Just got back from South Africa; Cape Town, Cape Winelands, then off to safari at Kruger; Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe; Botswana, Okavango Delta! It was a great 12-women trip, Women, Wine and Wild. I researched and looked at this site for everything from suitcases, carry-ons, cross-body bags, packing, lists of clothes, shoes, jackets, underpinnings, toiletries, hats, scarves, etc.; for varying types of travel, city, winelands, safaris, and Travel Fashion Girl came through on all fronts – I was ordering things left and right even in the last few days and got it all together and had the most wonderful trip. I may have taken a little too much, but I really used most everything I brought so it all worked out. But as they say, less is more; I wouldn’t bother even with a little heel for dinners out if it’s only a few night in a city. I wouldn’t take as many pants as those can be interchangeable pretty easily, especially if you bring a few blouses/tops. For chilly mornings or evenings, a lightweight puffer jacket was perfect. And scarves are perfect to help mix it all up and really be able to wear the same things with different scarves. TFG is an amazing place to go for everything travel; I love it!

Just got back from our 3 week honeymoon on safari in Kenya and Tanzania including a week in Zanzibar – these packing lists from TFG were so helpful for knowing what to expect and helping to minimize how much luggage to bring. Definitely recommend carry on backpack for this trip to fit in the small trunks of the land cruisers and for small airplanes (we took one with only 12 seats!)

This recommended packing list was just what I needed for a 10-day safari in Tanzania.Thank you 🙏

Someone recommended we take soft travel bags to fit onto the small airplanes which I would NOT do again. Due to their weight, it made the grueling trek through airports a painful experience 😣 Instead, we would have preferred rolling, carry-on luggage. My two-cents, but unless you travel lightly, soft bags aren’t the way to go for this type of trip. Anyone else?

Thank you for sharing your own feedback with us Tracy, this is really helpful to know. Hope you had an incredible time!

It was an incredible time, thanks Alex! Would love to go again 😀

Loved this packing list! I only went on a two day safari but this was immensely helpful with helping me choose the right clothes to pack for a conference plus my safari outing.

We’re just back from a Safari in Zimbabwe , Botswana and Zambia And I found previous posts on Safari clothing on this site invaluable! And def no all in ones ! We stopped for loo breaks whenever needed and took it in turns to go round to the back of the truck so it was totally private and discreet! I took very thin summer dresses for the middle of the days and was really glad of these . And we definitely needed warm things for early morning … I had a cashmere snood I was so thankful for … I could pull it up over the back of my head . Also silk gloves ! And it was the best holiday we have ever had !

Thank you so much Julia, so glad we were able to help you with your packing. And thank you for sharing your packing insights with us, these are all super helpful.

So pleased to hear you had such an amazing time!

Just came back from a trip that included: Capetown; The Winelands; Vic Falls; Chobie game drive in Botswana; self drive through Kruger; and a luxury resort/safari game drive; — oh yeah and we had a two day stop over in Doha (!) So we had temps that ranged from 50-65 degrees in Capetown/Winelands; 55-85 in Kruger, and 98-112 degrees in Doha (!)

So one big thing to consider is that the weather is vastly different depending where you go: Capetown in July is Winter, which is chilly and drizzly, can be windy and stormy, BUT because it’s their winter, it was the best time to go on Safari on the other side of South Africa, which was Great Kruger National Park, so just remember, your season might not be their season. Best safari pants I brought was North Face Hybrid Yoga/cargo pants in olive — stretchy, quick dry, had tons of pockets, but felt like leggings. Also the lululemon “Smooth Departure” packable rain coat. Ultra light, and looks good while on safari or in the city. Lastly, even if you go during a “light bug” season, I would recommend at least one Insect Shield SPF long sleeve top (that can be also rolled up) and at least two pairs of their socks. Long sleeve shirts that have SPF can keep you cooler than a t-shirt because the African sun is HOT!! And even if you come from a sunny state (Like CA, as I do) your arms can get really get burnt. Also, a first layer underlayer (for cold) can do double duty. I wore it over my bathing suit while I was going into Devil’s Pool (Victoria Falls), and it really saved me because the water was COLD!! Because it was dry-wicking, it dried almost immediately. Also, just a note: our safari guides would NOT have recommended wearing that bright turquoise jacket that’s pictured in the photo (especially on a walking safari) — maybe it was more “neutral” looking in real life?

Hi Victoria, thank you for sharing your trip report with us and all your great travel tips! This is really helpful. Hope you had an incredible time on your trip! ?

Thank you for the advice! I am looking to travel to Togo, Africa at the end of January 2020 for roughly 2 months. I think the best take away for me I hadn’t really considered is laundry and drying time! I tend to get hot, sweat a lot and very easily. I will let you know how it goes!

Hi Mari, so pleased you found this atricle helpful. Looking forward to reading how you get on. Have the most incredible time! ?

Hello, we are going to Ezulwini Lodges in the middle of March. I have struggled over what to wear and what essentials I should take. I have loved reading all of your comments over the years and am finally taking a 7 night trip there. We are also going to spend 2 night in Maritime Bushveld Estates. Any thoughts on attire?

Hi Jody, thank you for your lovely comment, so pleased you enjoy reading our blog!! 🙂 For other tips to help with your packing for your safari, have a read of this article: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-african-safari-tours/ You may also find this article interesting, its about how one TFG reader packed carryon for her African safari and how she also was able to keep the weight to below 10lb: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/safari-packing-list/ Also our readers have the best advice and tips, so I have gone ahead and posted your question on TFG’s facebook page. Keep your eyes out for our readers replies from Wednesday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ Hope this helps. Have an incredible trip!!

Hi Jody, here is the FB thread with our readers replies to your question: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/posts/2240284559328533 Hope this helps! 🙂

Thanks so much for sharing this Alex! It’s really helpful . Well, I’m going to Tazania in mid of December. Plan a week in there, there are 2 days will be soft hinking with group. Any tip of packing for specific December weather. Please advise! Thanks in advance,Tracy

What shades of blue need to be avoided? Just dark blue or also aquamarine/baby blue and royal blue? How about lavender? Thx!

thank you for this very inclusive list. I appreciate all the work and effort to provide this resource.

YES it gets COLD, even in summer! Keep in mind that some local flights out into the bush have a weight limit on luggage so double check on this- they’re strict! Also, some safari’s do laundry daily so that helps cut down on what you need. I survived a 2 week trip with 2 pairs of leggings, 1 hiking pant from Athleta (cute!), 1 pr of shorts, 5 shirts, (mix of button ups, tanks and athletic type t’s) a fleece and a windbreaker. Don’t overdo the shoes either! One pair of sneaker types and one pair of sandals is fine!

Great tips Megan, thanks!

Great article! Having lived in Africa for the past nine years, I might also advise against wearing shorts. Most of Africa is significantly more conservative than many Western countries, and the only people I ever see in shorts are the tourists and, at times, wearing anything cut above the knee can attract unwanted attention from males- an unfortunate but true reality

Hi Emily, thank you so much for your comment! Thank you for sharing your travel advice 🙂

Hi Alex, Emily’s comment about shorts also might include strappy tank tops and leggings. Your comment about wearing sports bras was right on. Safari trucks have lousy shocks and you will be bounced around. A scarf is useful for keeping dust out of you eyes and mouth.

This really helped me on my recent trip to Kenya and Tanzania. Thank you! 😊

Love your posts! What kind of shoes do you recommend? Are light nike trainers enough or do you need sturdier shoes that are waterproof? I am going on an overlanding trip to South Africa, Namibia and Botswana in July, not to many walking safaris scheduled. Thanks!

I found my regular cross trainers worked well as we only had one walking safari. A few more tips here: https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-african-safari-tours/

We are going to Tanzania Zambia staying in lodge accommodation at the end of November,we are on the older side but are fairly fit. What clothes should I take..?we have a black tie do to attend in Zambia.I like clothes with sleeves

Try this: https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-kenya-and-tanzania/ and https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-africa-serengeti-zanzibar/

We are going to Cape Town for 4 days then winery for 4 days, safari for 5 then victoria falls. Will it look silly if I wear kaftans for dinners? And what about days for shopping and touring in towns? I can’t imagine having only a carry on and not a variety of clothing.

If you’d normally wear kaftans to dinners at home then you should wear them while you’re traveling too 🙂

No blue clothing, as it (like black) attracts mosquitos. Bring decent underwear, something you won’t be embarrassed for camp staff to wash by hand, as I found one fellow doing. You’ll wear the long-sleeve shirt in the jeep during the afternoon so you don’t get sunburned. Unless you’ll hike, closed-toe sandals are good for everything. I wore clogs for the plane and around camp. Glad I brought a fleece jacket for cold mornings. I brought older clothing and left it. In Tanzania, I left sneakers with a camp staffer who was extremely grateful, even though they were one size too big for him. To my safari driver went my bathing suit and robe (someone will wear them), fleece jacket, and old Tevas. I suggest a headlamp, which you may need (tents and hotels were short on light).

Thanks for your feedback Emmy, great tips!

I would add one trash bag to the packing list. In the morning game drive on our last day of the safari, it rained cats and dogs on us, and we got soaked (we all had rain ponchos on but they didn’t help much). Thankfully, someone had trash bags to spare, so we could put the wet clothes in the bag and put in the luggage without everything else getting damp.

That’s a really great tip Midori! thanks for sharing!

Is there a printable safari packing list so I can have it with me shopping, in my closet and when I am actually packing? Thanks

No printable option, maybe take screenshots of this post to help? Happy travels!

I have been to Tanzania (with way too many clothes) and am heading back to Africa for a trip to Cape Town, Namibia, and Victoria Falls. Your packing list suggestions are very helpful as I tend to grossly over pack! Thank you!!!

Thanks for reading Cathy! Sounds like you have an incredible trip planned! We are happy that you have found the packing suggestions helpful! Less stuff is less stress! Happy travels!

Great tips! What size bag did you pack? We’re going mid-July for 3 weeks, and will be spending several days on Mauritius at the end of our trip, so I’ll need to take a few things to dress up a bit.

Hi Cynthia, glad you like the post! This was before I traveled carryon only so I had a 65L backpack. However, I was on a round-the-world trip and had been traveling for nine months before I got to Africa.

Currently, I would never travel with anything larger than a 22″ or 46L suitcase since that’s what I use on my long-term travels now 😉 All the luggage styles Ive used throughout the years can be found here: https://travelfashiongirl.com/best-osprey-backpacks/

This post will help you downsize your suitcase as much as possible: https://travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-guide-to-packing-in-one-suitcase-for-any-trip/

You can find more tips here: https://travelfashiongirl.com/africa-packing-lists/

Have a great trip!

Can you tell me the name of the hiking shoe in the above pic? Thanks

Hi Jennifer, the shoe is the Merell Calia found here http://amzn.to/1Abb4Js

For more ideas, please take a look at: https://travelfashiongirl.com/best-hiking-boots-for-women/

Could you tell me what brand of hiking shoe is shown above? Thanks

Just got back from an Africa safari, and here is my recommendations: 1.) Take Sunscreen! I burned one half of my face sitting in the safari vehicle one day…so I switched sides to burn evenly the next. 2.) A hat would help combat problem #1. 3.) Don’t waste space on hair dryers or makeup etc. No one in the bush cares. 🙂 Bring soap, shampoo, toothpaste and call it done. 4.) I only brought hiking tennis shoes. I longed for a pair of flip flops on the long days in a car. 5.) It can get quite chilly at night. Bring long pants for sleeping if you are staying in a tented camp. I was on my honeymoon so pajama’s wasn’t a top priority when packing…wish it had been! Lol! 6.) Bring a clean outfit for the plane ride home and put it aside. Coming out of the bush after a week of bucket showers you feel dirty enough. 7.) Last and most important: Don’t pack anything that resembles food in a tented camp. I had a granola bar in my bag and we had a honey badger break into our tent while we were gone. It ate the granola bar, chewed up all my underwear, and then took a big poop in my husbands suit case!

Great tips Kate, thank you! Hope you had an amazing experience 🙂

At least one knee length skirt or dress is a must if you are going to be exploring outside of the parks at all. A sarong also goes a long way and I have a nice knit hat I alway bring along in the winter. Also, the first time I traveled to Tanzania I made the mistake of thinking I would only need camping gear and spent the whole time wishing I had a cute top with me. I highly recommend bringing an outfit you can wear to dinner or a club. Overall, great tips! Thanks!

Great add! Thanks 🙂

Thank you so much for this post! I have been searching everywhere for something like it and it’s perfect! I’m off to fashionable Dubai & Iran after overlanding in Africa, so I’m trying to figure out a way to keep my suitcase light AND have enough clothes that are fashionable and practical! I reckon a few colourful scarves may be the way to go, and one long black skirt as well as the above.

That sounds about right! You can always buy a few new things upon arrival. This post might also be helpful: http:/travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-dress-for-conservative-countries-modest-clothing-essentials/

I am not sure if you have already gone trekking or not, but I might consider changing your black skirt to tan, beige, grey or even light pink. I spent two years in and out of Dubai and Afghanistan….you will constantly be trying to clean your black skirt, the sand is more like a talcum powder and sticks to everything, also the dark colours are hot! You will definitely want something feminine/girlie though and the scarves are an excellent idea! Have a wonderful time! 🙂

great tips!

I love all your posts! One question, do the outfits go in addition to what you will be wearing or do you wear one of the outfits in the photos? Thanks!

Hi Catherine! Sorry, which outfits specifically? Thanks for commenting 🙂

I think she means are the clothes pictured above ALL of the clothes for the trip, as in, are the clothes that you would be wearing on the way there and back included in the picture.

yes they are

As always, love, love, love the lists! In all parts of Africa, it’s best to always err on the side of modesty and cameo prints should always be avoided. On safari, it would be worth spending the extra money for clothing that is sunscreen rated/treated with bug repellent.

Thanks Vanessa!

Love that you show a sports bra – those African roads can be amazingly bumpy!!

Yes and painful without support! Ouch!

I always bring gloves with me when I’m in Africa. The morning game drives are always cold.

Oooh that’s true! Forgot that one…thanks for the reminder 🙂

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Safari Outfit Ideas to Pack When You Finally Take That Dream Trip

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing for a safari is a science: You need to be prepared for changing temperatures, high sun, and plenty of dust, as well as cocktail hour and a dip in the pool—and all of your safari outfits, plus toiletries and gear, have to fit in a soft-sided duffel with a strict weight limit. We polled our resident experts and trusted specialists for safari outfit ideas, whether you're staying in a luxe tented camp on the Okavango Delta in Botwsana or traversing the Sabi Sands game reserve in South Africa . Note that most safari outfitters will provide travelers with an itemized packing list, so check with yours about specifics (as well as any vaccines or medications you might need) before you go.

Getting there

Most safari camps are only accessible by small propeller planes, which don’t allow hard-sided luggage. Pack everything in soft duffels that can be easily tossed into the back of the plane or the back of a Land Rover (weight limits are strict, too, so make sure you check with the outfitter before you go). Our advice: bring along some low-tech entertainment and have your camera handy for the views. Go Pro's Hero 9 has built-in tech to help keep any footage you shoot looking steady, making it perfect for bumpy rides.

On a game drive

Specialists disagree on the details, but you’re generally advised to avoid red and white clothing (as well as anything Day-Glo) while on game drives because it can attract insects or make you more visible to certain animals. Instead, go for clothing in shades of khaki, brown, and olive, which help you to blend in with the environment and hide dust and dirt, and pair it with some sneakers with a decent tread (on most safaris, you don’t need serious hiking boots). You’ll also want to pack plenty of layers since it can be chilly in the early morning, and blazing hot a few hours later. Don't forget a hat to help keep your skin protected under the harsh midday sun.

Around camp

You’ll want casual, cozy clothes to wear while you’re lounging around camp in between your daily excursions. A durable sandal with some grip will work just fine, and don’t forget a bathing suit —many lodges or tented camps have gorgeous pools.

Safari chic dinner

Some travelers like to have a more dressed-up option for cocktail hour and dinner back at camp—think flowy, breezy dresses, flats that can withstand a little dust, and a warm scarf to wrap yourself up in. Jumpsuits are a great option since it eliminates having to pack both tops and bottoms for evenings. In terms of accessories, leave any really blingy jewelry at home and opt for a more simple, pared down look.

Amanda Wanders

realistic adventures • laughs & carbs

What to Wear on African Safari • Complete Safari Clothing & Outfit Guide

You’ve booked your dream trip; an African safari in Tanzania. And now, the slight panic sets in because… what do you wear on this African safari? What should be on your African safari packing list? You’ve seen in documentaries people in head to toe tan, with dirt-covered boots and mosquito nets, but is actually what the ideal African safari outfit looks like? I’m going to help you put together multiple safari outfit ideas so that you are dressed in a safe, functional, and maybe even cute way for this safari trip! So settle in and let’s look at what to wear on African safari and at some African safari outfits that worked for me!

I specifically went to Tanzania for my 7-day safari, but these rules for a recommended safari outfit are pretty applicable to almost any safari in Africa (aside from gorilla trekking).

Use my affiliate code AMANDAWANDERS to save $100 on any safari with Shiri Adventures

Rules for what to wear on safari.

And before we get started with this “what to wear on African safari” guide ,  I may receive commission  if you make a purchase from some of the links in this list. However I promise I would never recommend something to you that I didn’t personally love. So these items are all vetted through yours truly and are 100% perfect for a safari outfit.

Colors Matter in African Safari Outfits

The first time I typed “what to wear on an African Safari” in Google was because I wanted to know what colors and patterns I could get away with on my first safari. Turns out, not many! You see mostly earth tones from guides and naturalists because that’s what you need to wear to not stick out to the wildlife so it’s important that what you wear on an African safari meets the muted tones of your destination.

Here are some no-go African safari outfit colors:

• Don’t wear black or dark blue because these colors attract tsetse flies
• Don’t wear white, it doesn’t blend with any terrain
• Avoid loud colors and patterns for the same reason as white
• Avoid camouflage, this is reserved for military only

What colors are good to wear on an African safari?

• Light earth tones; tans, browns, forest greens, and colors in that same vein
• Either solid print or very minimal patterns aregoing to be ideal for your safari outfit

Dress in Light Fabrics and Layers

The mornings and evenings on an African safari can be cool with warmer to hot afternoons, so you’ll definitely want to pack African safari outfits that can be layered. It’s easiest to layer light fabrics, and you’ll definitely want things that are breathable so you don’t overheat. An African safari outfit made of sweat-tastic fabrics is no good so this “what to wear on African safari” guide is going to be FULL of breathable, cooling fabrics.

What fabrics to wear on an African safari?

• Anything lightweight and breathable

You’re going to be traveling between lodges or camps almost every day on your African safari, and you’re not going to want to be packing up a ton of clothes every time. So no matter what you wear for your African safari, I HIGHLY recommend you pack 2 or 3 outfits that you can mix and match items between.

I also packed using my Peak Design backpack and the Away Bigger Carry-On luggage, and these were easy to move with every day. Everything included in this “what to wear on African safari” guide fit in just those two items easily!

Keep Your African Safari Outfits Simple

I know we’re all sort of convinced from movies we need to wear these extravagant African safari outfits, but I promise simple is better here. Form and function over fashion for sure, but I promise you can still look nice. You’re going to be getting in and out of vehicles, standing up and down all day every day for however many days you’re on African safari so what you wear on safari should be comfortable first and foremost. BUT the best thing about some of my outfit recommendations below is that they’re still cute!

Wear Long Sleeves and Pants

This might not seem an obvious suggestion for what to wear on safari, but you’ll appreciate it nonetheless. You’re going to want to protect yourself from the sun, the dirt/dust, and the elements, so I highly recommend wearing pants and for one of the layers of your safari outfit to be a long sleeve shirt of some sort. Not every layer needs to be long sleeves, but at least one.

Women’s

• Coalatree Trailhead Pants (antimicrobial with stink-proof fabric) & get 15% off using the code ECOGEAR15
• Wayre Cruiser Pant (stink and wrinkle-proof) & get 20% off using the code AMANDAWANDERS20
• Amazon cargo hiking pants
• Patagonia button up shirt
• Wayre Button Up Crop & get 20% off using the code AMANDAWANDERS20

Men’s

• Eddie Bauer Rai nier Pants
• Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants
• Columbia Utility Lite Long Sleeve Shirt (lightweight men’s button down)
• Kühl Airspeed Shirt

Comfortable Shoes

If you’re not doing any sort of hiking or trekking on safari, your shoes won’t really matter as much. Our safari consisted of game drives for the most part, so I really just recommend something comfortable and neutral in color. This can be hiking boots or a sneaker; whichever would work.

But you will want something that isn’t going to get ruined by a little mud. Depending on what time of year you go on safari you may be walking in a little bit of mud at your hotel/camp site, lunch spot, or any other stops you make along the way.

Shoes I’d Recommend:

• Blundstone boots (but make sure they’re broken in by the time you go)
• My all-time favorite hiking boots – Timberland Chocorua Trail Boot
• Baabuk Sky Wooler in Oatmeal – these are the sneakers I wore
• Salomon hiking boots – these are my husband’s favorite shoes

Bring a Raincoat

Again, because of the weather I highly recommend a raincoat for your safari outfit. Because not only is it a light jacket that acts as a great outer layer should you need it, it’s also great in case you’re going on safari during the shoulder or rainier seasons. So definitely add a raincoat when considering what to wear on your African safari.

Get one of my favorite raincoats:

• MARMOT Women’s PreCip Rain Jacket
• Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket

What to Wear on an African Safari • Outfit Ideas

Looking for outfit ideas and inspiration for what to wear on safari? I’ve got you. Here are the outfits I wore that were included in my African safari packing list:

Check out my Amazon African Safari Packing List for all my favorite African safari outfits and more!

Women’s Safari Outfit Idea 1

Wayre is a brand that sells sustainable and ethically-made travel clothing, and I found these outfits to be perfect for safari. They’re lightweight, they had great neutral colors, and they’re stink-proof! These little two-piece outfits were the perfect solution to what to wear on an African safari.

Recommended products:

• Wayre Cruiser Pant
• Wayre Button Up Crop
• Use my code AMANDAWANDERS20 for an additional 20% off at Wayre

Women’s & Men’s Safari Outfit Idea 2

Another outfit from Wayre ; this brand is a perfect solution for what to wear on safari.

Women’s products:

• Wayre Cruiser Pa nt

Men’s products:

• Safari button up shirt from Amazon
• Eddie Bauer Guide Pro pants

Women’s Safari Outfit Idea 3

This romper/jumpsuit was amazing. It was SUPER lightweight and very cute. I loved it as a cuter safari outfit, but as always remember that when wearing a jumpsuit you basically have to completely disrobe to use the restroom. I didn’t find it much trouble, but important to keep in mind when considering what to wear on an African safari.

• Patagonia jumpsuit/romper

Women’s Safari Outfit Idea 4

This button up shirt was an absolute must and I wore it multiple times in multiple ways. I loved it. And I also paired it with these Amazon pants in addition to the previously mentioned jumpsuit.

• Patagonia shirt
• Amazon crop
• Amazon pants

So there you go, all the rules I learned around what to wear on an African safari. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out . To learn more about the African safari I went on, definitely follow me on socials, because I’ve got TikTok playlists and Instagram highlights saved! I hope you have the absolute time of your life on safari, I know I did!

Follow Me On

Get travel tips to your inbox, pin this safari packing guide for what to wear on african safari for later.

7 thoughts on “ What to Wear on African Safari • Complete Safari Clothing & Outfit Guide ”

Your tip concerning the colors just saved me! My entire wardrobe is mostly black clothes so I’d be hanging with tsetse flies all day. Saved to check back for when I pack for our upcoming safari 🙂

So many great tips you would not otherwise know if you hadn’t already been on safari.

Love these tips! I would never have thought about black or blue attracting the flies. I’m already a ‘bug magnet’ so I’ll take all the help I can get!

Okay, you make dressing for a safari look so stylish! I love your outfits 🙂 This is seriously so helpful though, I would have had no clue what to wear on a safari. Thanks for sharing these tips!

This is such a helpful post! My favorite color is black so I would definitely need to invest in some new pieces before a safari (which is on the bucket list!). Great advice. Loved the recommendations for stylish yet functional pieces. Definitely saving for later!

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What To Wear On Safari

What clothes to pack for your safari.

The type of safari clothing you decide to pack for your safari will depend on a number of things, including the destination, time of year and what type of safari you’re going on. However, there are a number of universal principles when it comes to deciding what to wear on safari.

Click below to go straight to the most relevant section, or scroll down to read the full safari clothing article:

Safari wear basics | Safari shirts  | Trousers | Footwear | Safari hats  | What not to wear

Safari wear basics

What’s the best colour to wear on safari.

The basic rule of suitable colours for safari clothes is to go neutral . When trying to spot wildlife you’ll have the best chance if you blend in as much as possible with your surroundings, and bright colours will make you conspicuous to animals – particularly if you’re on a walking safari .

Ideal colours for safari wear are natural, such as:

• Light Browns

Whilst any other neutral colours are fine too, there are a number of colours you should definitely make sure you don’t wear on safari wear:

Camouflage clothing is a big no-no, and in some African countries it’s actually illegal , so leave the camouflage safari clothing at home!

White and very pale coloured clothes show up the dust, so are best kept for evening wear.

Dark blue and black colours attract insects and mosquitos, which can carry malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever – some of the most serious health risks you might encounter on safari.

Ideal safari clothing material

The ideal material for safari clothing is something that’s lightweight & breathable and makes minimal noise whilst you’re moving. Simple cotton works best for safari shirts and trousers, though there are increasing numbers of quality modern man-made materials that work just as well as cotton and are even more durable.

Think layers for safari wear

Packing lightweight safari wear has the benefit of enabling you to layer up or down according to need. Africa is a continent of extremes – it can be extremely cold through the night into the early morning and swelteringly hot by the middle of the day.

As such it’s a good idea to take multiple layers of safari clothing so you can add and remove layers as required – including at least one warm layer like a sweatshirt, fleece, or safari jacket . This is particularly important if you’re going to be doing any early morning safaris in an open-sided vehicle (though your lodge will likely provide blankets for early morning game drives).

What to wear on safari – the essentials

When it comes to safari clothing less is more, and most camps and lodges have same-day laundry services, so bear this in mind before packing a huge suitcase full of safari clothes! At a minimum you will need:

Safari shirts

A few comfortable long-sleeved shirts and long-sleeved t-shirts. Long-sleeved safari shirts have the advantage of offering protection from the sun and insects, but also being able to roll the sleeves up if it gets too hot.

Shirts with a collar to protect the neck from the harsh sun are advisable, as are shirts with pockets to store your bits and pieces (see our article on top things to take on safari if you’re after useful things to fill your pockets with!).

Our favourite men’s safari shirts:

[amazon box=”B07427LJG9,B00EO32DCW,B06XD5V6D9″ grid=”3″]

Our favourite women’s safari shirts:

[amazon box=”B0868LGBCY,B07115T7MB,B07M8BCYYK” grid=”3″]

Trousers & shorts

A pair of comfortable long trousers or two, and a pair of shorts. Combat style trousers and shorts are ideal safari gear as they have several pockets, great for storing compact binoculars, suncream, camera etc.

Long trousers have the benefit of keeping you warm and protecting you from the sun in the day and mosquito bites on evening and night game drives. Here are some good safari trouser options:

[amazon box=”B01D60XBVK,B08DTW3F7W,B00DQ5244G” grid=”3″]

The type of footwear required to wear on safari really depends on what type of safari you’re planning. For a standard game drive or self-drive safaris , special safari footwear isn’t necessary. You’ll be climbing in and out of safari jeeps and maybe a little walking around the bush, so comfortable trainers will work fine.

For more specialist safaris such as gorilla trekking  you’ll be trudging through thick, uneven rainforest, so rugged Gortex boots are ideal. For any kind of walking safari, it’s advisable to have some sort of hiking boots that cover your ankles – for protection from both bush and snakes. It’s also worth considering a small investment in some hiking specialist insoles to provide extra comfort.

[amazon box=”B0779Q9G9B,B081P5WBQV,B01HFPP89A” grid=”3″]

Whilst not essential safari wear, any hat or cap is better than none at all. It will give you protection from the sun, and also shield your eyes from the glare – meaning potentially better wildlife spotting opportunities. The ideal hat is a wide-brimmed safari hat to offer maximum protection.

Read our take here on the very best safari hats , or check out these great options from Amazon:

[amazon box=”B06XH2JSK7,B072J5JS25,B07K447FF5″ grid=”3″]

The African sun can offer a surprising amount of harsh glare, so you won’t want to forget sunglasses as part of your safari attire. A pair of polarized wrap-around sunglasses will give you protection from both the glare and the dust that’s a feature of many game drives, meaning more chance of spotting that hiding leopard!

Evening wear

When considering evening safari wear, bear in mind that the days of jackets and ties at the dinner table are long gone. Most safari lodges have relaxed dress codes for dinner so there’s no need to take any formal safari clothes with you.

You’ll want to wash and change after a hard and dusty day’s game viewing, but a pair of jeans or trousers and a long-sleeved shirt will suffice, perhaps along with a warm fleece or safari jacket to ward off the night-time chill. Light colours are recommended for evenings so you don’t attract mosquitoes.

Be sure to check out whether your lodge has a swimming pool and if so, don’t forget to pack some safari-chic swimwear. A dip between game drives during the middle of the day is a great way to contemplate your wildlife viewings (past and future!) whilst working the tan.

What not to wear on safari

The above information should give you a good overview of what safari clothes to take with you, but just in case you’re still in any doubt, here’s a list of the clothes you should absolutely not take with you on safari:

A camouflage safari outfit .  In a number of African countries, you can actually be arrested for wearing army-style camouflage clothes that could be confused with military wear. Best to avoid at all costs.

Overly thick fleeces and jackets . Temperatures on safari change depending on the time of day, where you are, and what altitude you’re at… so layered clothing is ideal to add or remove as the temperature requires.

Heavy walking boots . Unless you’re planning to do some serious hiking a pair of trainers will do for walking around camp and hopping in and out of your jeep.

Black and blue clothing . East Africa is home to the tsetse fly which is attracted to dark colors and packs a nasty bite – best avoided by wearing lighter colours.

Bright clothing. Don’t draw attention to yourself if you want the best chance of spotting wildlife .

Tuxedos & ballgowns. Yes, people do! Most safari lodges have a very relaxed dress code for dinner, and whilst you will want to wash and change after a hard day game viewing you won’t need to dress over-formally for any evening activities.

And one last ‘don’t do’ tip for packing your safari wear:

Packing it all in one large suitcase . Limit the risk of all of your luggage going missing or being stolen on the flight by packing some essentials – and one safari outfit – in your hand luggage.

Hawaiian shirts are a classic no-no as safari clothing

Have you been on safari lately and have some tips on what to wear on safari? Please let us know by getting involved in the comments section below!

Have a sneak preview at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glO-rRsPBIo&feature=youtu.be All authentic gear – made close to the Kruger National PArk in South Africa – available here in the UK

We are travelling to South Africa to do a safari adjacent to the Krugar. Is that right that Camouflage is completely no allowed? Only I have just purc hased Shorts and a Hat. Please advise

Hi Colleen, as far as I’m aware there are no restrictions on camflage wear in South Africa, so you should be fine. That said, to be sure you should drop your safari lodge a line as they may have their own rules.

This is suitable for safaris! http://www.cafepress.com/guaxinim/9341456

Do you consider light to medium gray to be ok for colors

Hi Aggie, medium grey is a good colour for safari clothes, so long as it’s not too dark and not too light!

I would be interested in specific suggestions of brands to check out for women’s safari wear. Thanks, Barbara

An item I found extremely useful for gamedrives in open vehicles during winter is my large olive rain poncho. It works fine as a wind spiele and easily fits over the extra set of blankets you might wrap around you.

Excellent idea Birgit, I’ve never used a poncho, but I’d imagine they’re ideal for game drives – lightweight, and quick and easy to get on and off according to the weather.

Sounds like a great idea Birgit. We’ve been on a few high-end safaris where they’ve provided ponchos on bad weather game drives… but taking your own means you’ll be sure to stay dry!

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Safari basics

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How to Dress for a Safari

Last Updated: December 12, 2021

This article was co-authored by Kalee Hewlett . Kalee Hewlett is a Celebrity Stylist & Confidence Coach with almost two decades of experience helping clients build confidence and ‘dress for success.' She works with her clients to transform their sense of self 'from the inside out’ by merging her expertise in image consulting with Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Kalee’s work is rooted in science, style, and the understanding that ‘identity is destiny'. She uses her own methodology and Style To Success Strategy to create positive identity shifts. Kalee is a fashion TV host and appears regularly on QVC UK sharing her fashion expertise. She also was appointed as the head judge and host of Fashion One Network’s 6-part TV show 'Design Genius.’ This article has been viewed 23,797 times.

When you go on a safari, you'll be spending a lot of time outside, whether you're walking through brush, hiking, or riding in the back of a vehicle. You won't have much time or opportunity to change your clothes, so it's important to dress appropriately. Choose colors that match your surroundings and also don't attract bugs. You should also choose your clothing based on where in Africa you'll be. Quality clothing might be a little more expensive, but it's worth the investment.

Choosing Colors

• Sticking to these colors also helps to hide dirt. Your clothes will likely get dirty as you hike through brush or travel along dusty roads, and if your wardrobe is made up of mostly browns, tans, or khaki, the dirt will be hidden better. [2] X Research source

Dressing Based on Your Safari Destination

Selecting Quality Clothing

Choosing Accessories

• Companies like Columbia have these types of headbands.

Expert Q&A

• Stick to packing casual clothes. Even if you're staying in the highest-rated safari lodges or hotels in Africa, the code is still pretty casual. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Try not to over pack. Make sure you pack enough underwear and socks to last you the trip, but you really only need a few shirts and 1 or 2 pairs of pants and 1 or 2 pairs of shorts. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ http://www.africatouroperators.org/clothing/what-to-wear-on-a-safari
• ↑ https://theworldpursuit.com/safari-clothes-what-to-wear/
• ↑ https://www.micato.com/blog/expert-safari-packing-tips/
• ↑ http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sponsored/travel/luxury-south-africa-holidays/10602107/travel-tips-what-to-wear-on-safari.html

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We are your source on the Palouse for comics, non-electronic games, costumes, and theatrical make-up. We carry a full line of new comics, graphic novels, back issues, and collecting supplies. We also have a great selection of board games, card games, and Warhammer. Feel free to try a game or join an event in our store game room. We also stock costumes and have a complete selection of Ben Nye theatrical make-up all year. …

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Great service, helpful employees, and a cute dog. They have everything a nerd would ever need.

I was visiting from out of town and we stopped by here three time while we were here for a week. First to see what they had. This is a considerably larger store than the one we have in our town. They had basically everything a nerd could want. DND books and minis, magic cards, Pokémon, half of the store was cosplay stuff, mangas, war hammer, and other rpg and tabletop games. They had a reasonably sized play area that we could see. We intended on coming to the Friday night Magic events that they host but sadly we're unable to make it. The store was clean and the people were friendly and helpful. One of the cool features that they have is a tablet in store that you can search for cards through. You can also get the app and leisurely search at home and they will have the cards ready for pick up.

Eh. Some costumes and lingerie. This store can't seem to decide if it's selling comics and memorabilia or lingerie and adult toys. Fairly large location though and the stock rotates often so this may be the right store for you. You will not have an issue parking because the lot has about twenty spaces. Downtown Moscow also has street parking so hooray! The staff is generally friendly and knowledgeable. As in any store that all depends on the day and who helps you. Prices are fair on most items. As far as the adult items they do mark things up but being in Moscow you don't really have a lot of items for some of their merchandise. Amazon is bigger now so hopefully management will tweak prices accordingly to keep it competitive. If you're grabbing a few extra accessories for a costume or Halloween party this is your local spot. Read Bri T. and Kevin C's review for more comic and costume section details!

I do not understand the negative reviews of this store. The employees were quick to help anytime I had any questions and even told us about the free module Saturdays. The unique thing about this store is that it is not a toxic atmosphere like you may experience at the downtown Pullman gaming store. It has gaming of all types such as cards, board games, and table top rpg's. There is also costuming which I think fits quite well with the rest of the store as many gamers enjoy cosplay and the like. It was clean, the employees were respectful and were quick to remove negative customers who were rude, inappropriate and disruptive. I cannot praise this store enough. Most certainly the best gaming store around.

Wide selection of games from children to adult. Lots of Warhammer and D&D merchandise. Not a large selection of comics in store but I believe they will order whatever you want. Costumes/cosplay stuff rotates throughout the year, and the hidden adult-toy area has an okay selection. But I will definitely recommend this store for board games and Warhammer!!

I really like the selection of games here. We got The Battle of Hogwarts here and play it weekly. Have the expansion pack, too. Also enjoy the Fantastic Beasts Perilous Pursuits and Pandemic. The folks there have always been helpful and knowledgeable

I went here today because the costume portion of the store was recommended to me by a good friend. I was also told there is a sex-toy shop in the back room that I should check out. First off, as I was looking through the costumes, I was consistently followed by an employee as if I was going to steal something. They have just one dressing room, and the employee stands outside the dressing room the entire time, making you feel uncomfortable and rushed. Second, after showing an older female employee my ID to enter the sex shop, she ordered a younger male employee to be in there while I was. He followed me around the entire time I was in the sex shop, and it was very uncomfortable. I do not appreciate the lack of privacy that was given while looking at such a....personal election of items. If a female is going into the sex shop, they should have a female employee in there - and perhaps one that doesn't follow you around everywhere. I absolutely will not be back.

I was really disappointed in this store. I came in looking for comic book recommendations and was pretty much ignored. When I finally was able to get some help, it seemed as if I was inconveniencing the store. The store layout is weird and the selection is very limited. I felt kinda awkward the whole time I was in the store. The stores prices are rather high and they don't do any sales or promotions either. So I would recommend going to someone else in town or just shopping online. I won't go back.

Safari Pearl is a fun locally owned business. Their new location is awesome; I really like the bright and friendly atmosphere. I found all my gaming supplies here. They also have a large collection of board games, comic books, costumes, wigs and theatrical makeup all year round. It is fun just to see what they have in stock. They were willing to special order items that my friends needed. The staff was knowledgeable about their products and friendly. I also like how Safari Pearl participates and donates their time in local events.

For a comic shop, it has a really minuscule selection of comics. There are a couple shelves against the side of the wall, but the amount of current comics is almost non-existent. Then there's a couple tables with older selections of comics, which I appreciated. Please correct me if I am wrong, but if you want to get a subscription box, it's pretty pricey. I asked the cashier at the time and she told me that you pay for your box, then you also pay per series you want to subscribe to, then, of course, you pay for your comic as well. There are no other benefits other than that you are guaranteed a copy of whatever you're subscribed to. It was being justified that it's due to the fluctuation of college students coming in and out, so you also have to pay to cancel your box as well. Aside from the comics, there were also TCG -- mainly Magic, figurines, board games, and costumes. It seemed like this store tried too hard to do everything that it doesn't have much of anything. Despite the lack of items, my visit was still pretty pleasant as the cashier was friendly and helpful. If I'm ever out in this area again, it's hard to say if I'll go out of my way to revisit.

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Safari Pearl is your source on the Palouse for comics, games, costumes, and theatrical make-up. Our selection of comics and graphic novels offer captivating stories for every taste, age, and reading level. We also have a great selection of board games, card games, role-playing games, 40K, and Age of Sigmar. Games are a great entertainment value, they bring people together, and they build brain power. Feel free to try a game or join an event in our store game room. Safari Pearl is also your local, year-round source for costumes, cosplay, and stage make-up. We can supply everything you need for your theatrical production, we'll happily help you plan a theme party, and we love Halloween...

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Safari Pearl 660 W Pullman Rd Moscow, ID 83843 Monday - Saturday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Sunday Noon - 5:00 pm 208-882-9499 - [email protected] Map it!